Arrgh...this forum is currently slower than a 10-year-old not realizing they've been scammed by Platinum Version. Probably because it's being overloaded by - in fact - 10-year-olds not realizing they've been scammed by Platinum Version.
This week I'm giving a generic episode review for a generic contest, although the animation in my review is probably better. Though Mamoswine is now tame, it seems it is still too prideful to show its yearning for contests, so maybe the big guy's development isn't truly over yet, which would be good given how little development its disobedience stage received (Ribbon 5 screams Mamoswine victory). I also liked Ash having his first interaction with Ambipom in what seems like forever, even recalling his hat-stealing moments (which I oddly just griped about in the DP124 speculation thread).
Contest was rather typical, though James, Meowth, and Wobbuffet's costumes looked oddly familiar. From some Kanto ep, anyone? Vemilion Gym maybe? I also must credit Takeda for making Sukizo's Teeter Dance look so jello-ish. It was hysterical. Generic as Ambipom's appeal was, it was nice to take use of the CG sticker effects for once, making them slightly less meaningless. And in case anyone's wondering, Machoke does belong to Kenny.
The main battle was pretty stale, and I know someone will complain about Ambipom being able to attack and defeat a Haunter. Glad the lead female finally lost a chance at Ribbon 5, and also glad Kenny got a win since he's obviously losing to Dawn at Grand Festival. Also, that vertical pan of Marian was totally scandalous. And apparently Meowth is discussing tactics to earn Jessie a 3rd ribbon himself. Heist or actually participating in a contest and winning? The latter would be awesome, but it's gonna be interesting either way seeing as how the writers truly are intent on having Jessie make Grand Festival.